It was a night filled with fun, food, and networking–a night to be remembered­. On December 2nd, the Zicklin Forensic Accounting Association (ZFAA) and several graduate organizations hosted the 2nd Annual Alumni Night. It was a success thanks to the collaboration and team efforts put in by the Zicklin Graduate Tax Society, Zicklin Women in Business, Zicklin Graduate Accounting Society, Graduate Student Assembly, and Graduate Beta Alpha Psi. The event was a bustling affair where new connections formed and old companions were brought together in one venue.

The event started with introductions by Michelle Peng, the president of ZFAA; Sarah Goldman, from Zicklin Women in Business and Ron Jones and Hannah Yoo from Zicklin Graduate Accounting Society. Each of them showed their appreciation toward the students and professionals who chose to spend their Friday evening attending the intricately-planned event. They were impressed with the attendee turnout and hoped that this tradition of older and younger Bearcats meeting in a fun environment would continue and flourish. Michelle noted that one of the factors that drove her to make this semi-annual alumni event a bigger success than last semester’s was her desire to make networking easier, more fun, and even more meaningful between students and professionals. She believes that networking shouldn’t be stressful, but instead, should come easily. She fondly recalled the lasting connections she made from last year’s event, where some alumni continued to spend time with students even after the affair’s conclusion.

The welcome speeches made by the club executives were then followed by brief self-introductions made by the professionals. Each individual presented unique facts about themselves, and it was easy to see how their diverse experiences and backgrounds add to Baruch’s rich culture and reputation. Some individuals went to universities in their home countries, as others noted the sharp difference between their undergraduate and graduate degrees. The ice breaker–which was black-out bingo based on individual backgrounds, hobbies, and likes and dislikes, allowed individuals to easily introduce themselves and find common conversation topics. Some people never watched Game of Thrones; others traveled to more than ten countries. One individual graduated with a focus on dance and moved to business for their post-graduate degree.

The companies Baruch graduates came from varied, from organizations like the Big Four (Deloitte, KPMG, EY, and PwC) to companies that specialized in research, analytics, and marketing. Some of the professionals who attended invited other former Baruch students, and their addition made the night an even more festive occasion. Around the room, students asked alumni questions–ranging from inquiries about company expectations and requirements to advice about school, life, and career.​The 2nd Alumni Night was a memorable and enjoyable occasion. The food was great; steamed chicken, lasagna, and baked potatoes were part of the dinner offerings. Professionals acted as upperclassmen to current students, and a sense of camaraderie could be felt around the room. The event provided a familiar setting where individuals networking can truly enjoy themselves; it was a place where students and past students could share the experiences they’ve accrued as Bearcats. The event would not have been as successful if it were not for the alumni who took time from their busy schedules to give back to the Baruch community. The Zicklin Forensic Accounting Association thanks the individuals who had the time to attend the event and looks forward to future meetings with those were unable to make it.